2003 BMW X3 vs. 1998 BMW 316
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1998 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.3 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.1 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
